Jaguar XE: NDTV Premium Compact Sedan Of The Year 2017

The XE looks almost like the flagship XJ was inadvertently shrunk by selecting the wrong wash cycle. That said, it certainly does look premium - and distinctly like a Jaguar. But it's from behind the wheel that the new baby Jag really stamps its authority. It has a beautiful lightweight chassis, which is 75% aluminium, with sports car handling - and an eager drivetrain to match! The electrically assisted steering is perfectly weighted and provides good feedback. And the XE excels in the ride department too - as it remains sporty, but at the same time makes your daily commute very comfortable as it neutralises any potholes in the road.

Jaguar XE Wins The Premium Compact Sedan of the Year 2017

All of which means that the XE not only feels premium and luxurious when you're in the driver's seat, but, more importantly, it can get your heart racing if need be. Space in the rear seat, however, is tight - so the place that you want to be is clearly in the driver's seat. But if you do happen to find yourself there, it's very rewarding indeed. And so the XE beat out even the very capable Audi A4 to win the Premium Compact Sedan of the Year for 2017.

Dhruv Behl is editor of autoX and a member of the NDTV Car and Bike Awards jury since 2013.